Ben Sutherland

In 2014, I met Rebecca and was invited to volunteer at Just Zilch – something I wasn’t so keen on initially. I eventually attended an induction and immediately, after working my first shift, fell in love with the energy of the store and the interactions I had with the people using its service. Six months into volunteering, I was offered the opportunity to become the Just Zilch Store Manager. A role I would eventually be employed for.

Working for Just Zilch has been a life-giving experience for me. Up until then, I suppose, I never did much for anyone other than myself. Just Zilch has taught me the value of helping those around me and has brought me completely out of my shell.

Ben says before Just Zilch he had a meandering effort with study (music – filmmaking) and eight combined years unemployed. He found work down in Welly washing dishes in a restaurant between 08/09, but apart from this there wasn’t much that he was interested in pursuing. Over these eight years, Ben fell into a bit of a mental ditch where he wrestled with depression and anxiety. Since volunteering at Just Zilch, Ben says that his outlook on life has changed dramatically and he would recommend volunteering to anyone who is feeling a little unsure about their own future.

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Opening Hours

Monday – Friday1:30 – 2:30pm4:30 – 6pm

There will be someone at the store from 11am on weekdays if you want to drop off goods.